Input your city and state 2

Procedures

Our Procedures

Periareolar Breast Lift

A periareolar breast lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that enhances the appearance of a female's breasts. A periareolar breast lift, or mastopexy, is performed on women who have experienced breast sagging as a result of pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging, and gravity. A periareolar breast lift procedure refers to a special technique used in mastopexy surgery that has less scarring than other breast lift procedures.

A patient who is considering periareolar breast lift surgery should discuss their medical history, including all current medications and supplements, with their surgeon in order to mitigate the risks associated with this cosmetic surgical procedure. A patient should understand the risks and benefits of periareolar breast lift surgery and have realistic expectations about the intended results of the surgery. It is possible that a surgeon will recommend a mammogram be completed prior to periareolar breast lift surgery.

Surgery and Recovery

During a periareolar breast lift procedure an incision is made around the areola. The areola is the brown colored skin surrounding the nipple. Once this incision is made, the surgeon is able to tighten the breast tissue in all directions by removing excess skin. The periareolar breast lift procedure can also enhance breast appearance by reducing the size of the areola and repositioning the nipple. A periareolar breast lift procedure is most appropriate for women with a small degree of breast and/or nipple malposition.

The periareolar breast lift procedure itself is done on an outpatient basis in a hospital, surgical, or medical facility. The procedure takes anywhere between one and four hours and is done with the use of a sedative and general and local anesthesia. Once the periareolar breast lift procedure is complete, the breast area will be wrapped in layers of gauze and secured with an elastic bandage. The patient benefits from the use of a surgical bra for four to six weeks after the periareolar breast lift procedure. Bruising, swelling and discomfort is not uncommon during the first week or two and can be relieved with the help of prescribed pain medications. Stitches are usually removed a week to ten days after the surgery. Numbness may be experienced for up to six months and can sometimes be permanent.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure there are some risks associated with periareolar breast lift surgery. Complications from the use of anesthesia, as well as bleeding and swelling are possible risks associated with the periareolar breast lift surgery. Though the scars are smaller than those in other mastopexy procedures, a patient may experience some scarring. Scarring is often exacerbated in smokers. Patients who undergo periareolar breast lift surgery also run the risk of permanent loss of sensation in their breasts.